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[] [] []
[] Star Trek: The Next Generation [] Chapter one: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] An old aquaintance []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
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Captain's Log: The Enterprise has just departed from Starbase India after
a brief stop for shore leave and minor maintenance. The
ship is in top shape and my crew is happy to be out on
our mission again. Our new orders will be sending us to
the Rastaban star system, one with which the Federation
has had little contact.
Picard: Mr. Data, can you enlighten us as to this system into which we
are headed?
Data: Yes sir. The Rastaban system has been mapped by unmanned probes.
None of the planets are capable of sustaining human life, nor
has any other life been discovered in the region.
However, two of the planets of this system, of which there
are seven, contain excellent mineral deposits of elements
used by the federation. This includes some Dilithium Crystal
deposits.
Picard: Very good, Mr. Data. You have the bridge, Number One. If you
need me, I'll be in my quarters.
Riker: Yes sir. We'll keep things running up here.
[Picard leaves the bridge and Riker moves into the command seat.
Riker: Ensign Crusher, lay in a course for the Rastaban System.
Warp factor 7.
Wesley: Course and speed laid in, sir.
Riker: Engage.
[The enterprise leaps into warp drive]
Riker: Mr. Data, what is our estimated time of arrival?
Data: We should reach the system in approximately 14 days time at
current speed.
Riker: Looks like we've got a long, quiet trip ahead of us.
[8 days later...the Bridge]
Picard: Counselor Troi, how is the crew dealing with the long journey away
from known space?
Troi: Well Captain, most of the seasoned crew is getting along just fine.
They rather enjoy the adventurous spirit of exploring a new area.
A few of the newer crew members are a bit nervous, but not to
any great degree.
Picard: Good. Make sure and schedule plenty of recreation time for all
crew members. A long, uneventful trip like this is likely to cause
severe boredom, and that is just the thing that will change a
crew that is in tip-top shape into an unmotivated, careless bunch
of amatures.
Troi: Yes Captain, that is...
[Suddenly, a bright flash of light appears on the bridge and the entity]
[Q appears in the First Officer's seat]
Picard: [Jumping to his feet] Q! What the hell are you doing on my bridge?
Q: Captain Picard! It is always such a pleasure to pop by here. I
get such gracious welcomes.
Picard: Well I am sorry to dissappoint you Q, but you are NOT welcome here
on the Enterprise!
Q: Calm down, Mon Capitan. I'm just here for a visit, not to hatch
some fiendish plot as you no doubt believe I am.
Picard: And when have you given us reason not to believe so?
Worf: [Under his breath] I'd like to give him a welcome he would not
soon forget.
Q: What was that, Worf? I didn't know you could speak in complete
sentences yet. You have my congratulations.
Worf: [Begins growling]
Picard: At ease, Lieutenant. Now Q, what is your purpose here this time.
Q: No purpose Captain! As I said, I am simply here for a visit.
[Riker enters the bridge from the aft turbolift]
Q: Aah, Commander Riker, so good to see you again!
Riker: [Looking at the Captain] What the hell is he doing here?
Picard: I honestly don't...
Data: Captain, you may wish to turn your attention to the viewscreen.
Picard: [Turning to face the screen] What is it, Mr. Data?
Data: See for yourself, Captain. [He magnifies the image on the screen.
[On the viewscreen there is what appears to be a hole or a gigantic ink blot]
[in the middle of space]
Picard: Q I am not interested in playing anymore of your games. I must
ask you to leave my ship.
Q: I told you Captain, I'm not playing games. I only want to spend
more time with your delightful crew.
[Q snaps his fingers and with a brilliant burst of light, is suddenly clothed]
[in a rather gaudy Hawaiian shirt and Burmuda shorts]
Data: Captain, I am unable to get a fix on the dark image
on our viewscreen.
Q: Very clever, Captain. But surely you must realize I'm not the fool
you take me for.
Picard: [Concentrating on viewscreen] What the devil are you talking about, Q?
Q: Obviously Data is playing around with the computers or the screen
or some other silly little gadget to cause that spot to appear.
There is nothing real out there.
Data: Sensors read nothing, Captain.
Riker: Could this be the same entity we encountered before, Mr. Data?
Data: Uncertain, Commander. It does seem to display the same properties
as the being we encountered before. Or the lack of properties, as
the case may be.
Q: What are you all yapping about? There's nothing out there. I should
know.
Picard: [Turning to face Q] Q, is this some kind of trick of yours?
Q: Oh, come now Captain. Play a little joke and then try to blame
it on me? That's not very sporting of you, Jean luc.
Riker: I wouldn't trust Q any farther than I could throw him, but if he
isn't causing this then...
Picard: Nagilum...
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
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[] [] []
[] Star Trek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Two: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] Darkness enfolds []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
Captain's log: We have encountered a strange void in space that would appear
to be the same one the Enterprise encountered once before,
in another quadrant of the galaxy. To complicate matters,
the strange and troublesome Q is on board the vessel. I
am uncertain as to whether there is any connection between
Q and this void or not.
Q: What are you talking about? Now tell Data to quit fooling around
with the controlls and get that silly thing off the viewscreen.
Riker: Mr. Crusher, plot us a course away from that thing and make it quick.
Wesley: Aye aye, sir.
[The Enterprise veers away from the blot in space]
Q: It won't work, Jean Luc. I'm wise to your tricks.
Picard: Q! Either help us to determine what that is, or SHUT UP!
Q: What what is, Captain? Surely you don't expect me to buy this
little joke of yours, do you?
Riker: Q, do you mean to tell us that you can't sense anything out there?
Q: Nothing. This game is growing tiresome. Gentlemen, I would have
thought better of you. Especially you Riker. I always thought
you had a good sense of humor. It looks as though I was wrong.
Data: Captain, the void is remaining stationary. It is not attempting
pursuit.
Picard: Good. [Turning to Deana] Counselor, did you feel anything from
the void?
Troi: No sir, but last time we encountered it, if indeed this is the
same phenomenon, I did not feel anything until we were actually
inside of it.
Q: Really! I think this little joke of yours has gone far enough,
Picard. I'm leaving!
[An instant before Q can snap his fingers to vanish, the enterprise is]
[enveloped by the mysterious void]
Q: What happened? Captain, I demand that you tell me what you
just did!
Picard: Q! Be Quiet! Mr. Data, status?
Data: It is just like our previous encounter, sir. We are inside of the
void. Sensors show nothing.
Riker: Just like last time.
Q: This is indeed interesting. Ha ha, Picard. It looks like you've
gotten yourself into more trouble. Tsk tsk tsk. Too bad I can't
stay around and enjoy this with you.
[Q raises his fingers and snaps, causing a burst of bright light. When the]
[flash dissapates, Q is still standing on the bridge where he was before]
Q: What?!?
[Q frantically snaps again and again, with the same results each time]
Picard: Q, what is happening?
Q: This simply can't be! I'm omnipotent, omniscient! I can't snap
away! I can't even tell where we are! [Turning to Picard]
Tell me, what is going on here?
Riker: Sir, I think that Q is just playing more games with us. Either
he is causing this phenomenon, or he knows what is happening
and is trying to lead us on.
Picard: I am inclined to agree with you, Number One.
Q: [Snapping his fingers furiously, causing brilliant flashes of]
[light to fill the bridge!] Impossible! I am Omnipitent!
Riker: Knock it off, Q!
[Q snaps his fingers and causes the bridge to be filled with ice cream,]
[dripping over all the displays and the Officers as well]
Picard: Q! Stop this nonsense! Either tell us why you are playing this
little joke on us, or leave!
Q: [Breathing hard, lifts his head to look at the Captain] I can't
believe this...
Picard: And please, clean up this mess!
Q: Very well, Captain Picard. [He snaps his fingers and the ice
cream on the bridge dissappears. Q appears confused and
rather nervous]
Riker: Mr. Data, are your sensors showing anything yet?
Data: Negative, sir. Continuing to scan.
Picard: Q, come with me. Commander Riker, you have the bridge. Notify me
if anything whatsoever happens. [Heads toward the ready room, Q
slowly follows]
Riker: Aye aye, sir.
[The Captain's ready room]
Picard: Now Q, tell me the truth. Are you playing another one of your
cruel jokes on us? Because if you are, I'll not...
Q: My dear Captain, I am as lost and blind as you are. I have no
need to play such silly little games with you anymore.
Picard: Then I take it that you at least are not the cause of this
incident? If that is the case, then I must ask you to tell
us what you know of what is out there. As you recall, it was
one of your little "lessons for humanity" that caused the
federation to become engaged with a devastating conflict with
the Borg.
Q: [Head in his hands] Jean Luc, you must believe me. I am as
much at a loss to know what is happening out there as you are.
It is as if the entire universe just dissappeared.
That is why I can't snap out of here. I need some point of
reference in space.
Picard: If what you are telling me is the truth, then I must conclude
that we have been captured again by an entity named Nagilum,
who, as far as we can determine, dwells in a different dimension.
Q: [Rising to his feet and slapping his forehead] Of course! Another
dimension! As far as I know, if other dimensions even exist, no
one from this dimension would be able to even perceive them.
It is beyond our senses and the physical boudaries of this
Universe.
Picard: That might explain some things...[looking at Q, skeptically]
that is, if you are telling us the truth.
Q: My dear Captain Picard, what reason would I have to lie to you?
If I wanted to torment you, I could easily have created horrors
so real and disgusting that you would be frightened to your
wits end, not some silly lack of sensor function.
Picard: Then, I wonder if we are to be tested again...
Q: Tested? [Raising an eyebrow]
Picard: Yes, as if we were in some sort of giant laboratory. It is hard to
explain. Eventually, we were confronted by the image of an entity
which dwelled within this void.
Q: [Standing up and pacing nervously] Yes, yes I can understand
that happening to you puny humans, but it should not be happening
to me. I should not be blind! I'm omniscient! Just because we
of the Q cannot willfully traverse the dimensions shouldn't mean
that we cannot know what is in them if taken there.
I should know everything that is happening here, and yet I
know no more, perhaps less that you.
Picard: I don't trust you Q, you know that.
Q: [Smiling cynically] But of course, Jean Luc.
Picard: Nevertheless, I feel that we must cooperate to find an end to this
crisis. This Nagilum killed one of my crewmembers and was prepared
to take the lives of a third of the ships complement to satisfy
its curiosity about our species. I cannot allow that to happen
again.
Q: Oh, bother with you and your petty concerns for your crew! I could
possibly be in great danger! Me! A member of the Q continuum! Things
like this simply don't happen!
Picard: [Standing up, glaring] My primary concern is for the safety of this
vessel and it's crew! Your survival is your own concern, Q, but I
am willing to cooperate with you to achieve both ends, if you are
willing. If you don't cooperate, then you had better leave my ship
and get out of our way!
Q: [Turning away from Picard and biting his lip] ...It would seem I
have no choice, Captain. I am as much at the mercy of this void
as you.
Riker: [Over the communication channels] Captain, I think you'd better
get up here...
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Three: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] Into the shadows []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
Captain's log: As has happened once before in our experience, the Enterprise
has been enveloped by a great black void, which we believe
to be inhabited by an entity known as Nagilum, or another
like Nagilum. Our frequent "guest", Q, is on board ship
as well. Q, while being an entity of great power, appears
to be unable to leave this void or ascertain what is in
it, if anything at all. He appears to have his powers still
but cannot use them to leave or understand the region.
Perhaps this is due to it being another dimension, or perhaps
Nagilum, or whatever else may be out there, is more formidable
than even Q himself.
Q: I heard that log entry, Jean Luc. I can assure you, if there is
something out there with the ridiculous name of "Nagilum", it is
certainly no match for me. I'm just a little confused right now
from being in a new neighborhood, that's all.
Picard: Be silent, Q. What is it Commander Riker?
Riker: [Points to the viewscreen] Commander Data has informed us that
there is something out there...our old probe beacon.
[A droning bell sound is heard as the Enterprise passes a Federation
probe...]
Picard: Commander Data, are you certain that this is the same probe that
we launched before?
Data: Yes sir, unless it is a reconstruction of the one we sent. Signal
strength, identification codes, and exterior markings all confirm
that it is the same probe that we launched the last time we were
here...if in fact this is the same place.
Picard: That was light years from here.
Data: Yes sir.
Q: Well, what does this mean? Do you know where we are?
Picard: Well Q, I can't say as I am sure of anything right now, except that
I am hungry. Number one, will you watch the bridge while I get
myself something to eat in my ready room?
Riker: Of course, Sir. I'll call you if anything developes.
Q: That's it? You're stuck in some disgusting, formless dimension
and all you can think of is your stomach? And I thought I was bad!
[Picard exits to the ready room, not even bothering to acknowledge Q's]
[comments. Riker takes his seat in the Captain's chair.]
Riker: Mister Worf, try and hail Nagilum or whatever, if anything, that's
out there. We need to find some answers.
[In the Ready Room, Captain Picard sits down in front of his small computer
screen with a hot plate of curried rice and lentils covered with shrimp,
and of course, a steaming mug of his favorite, Earl Grey Tea. Suddenly,
the small screen is filled with a hideous aparition, resembling a small
child with its facial features strangely out of place, and out of proportion.
Its mouth moved as if it were disconnected from the rest of its face as
the warped image began to speak]
Nagilum: Hello Captain Picard. I am pleased to see you again.
Picard: Nagilum. I hadn't expected to see you again, until we were enveloped
by your void again. Our intentions in this part of the Galaxy
are peaceful Nagilum. We do not wish any trouble with you again,
and I entreat you not to harm any more of my crew...
Nagilum: [Cutting him off] There is no need to be concerned, Captain. I
have no desire to harm either you or your crew. I learned much
during our last encounter. I have come to have a great respect
for your species. And I understand why you cherish your existence
so greatly, as it is not a permanent one.
Picard: Then may I ask why you have brought us here, into your...void,
again?
Nagilum: Of course, Captain. And please, continue with your meal. I find
the metabolic processes of your species very interesting and would
observe more. The reason I have come to you is to study the being
who is sitting on your ship's bridge now. The one you know as
Q. He is very different from you, perhaps more similar to myself
in some ways, but vastly different in construction and in ability.
Tell me what you know of him please.
Picard: Well, Nagilum...I'm afraid I know very little about him as a being
or as a species...My main understanding of him is through his
personality.
Nagilum: [Nodding] Please continue.
Picard: Well, he seems to have the menality of what we humans would call
an "arrogant, spoiled brat". He feels he has some right to
interfere in the lives of any being he so chooses. Unfortunately,
his powers allow him to do just about anything he likes.
Nagilum: Interesting. Very interesting. Thank you for this information,
Captain. I shall now make my own observations and judgements.
Please do not interfere, Captain. I do not believe that my
experiments will cause too much inconvenience...or danger to
your crew.
[Nagilum's image dissappears from the screen]
Picard: Nagilum! Wait! Commander Riker...
[Riker's voice comes over the ships communications net]
Riker: Yes sir?
Picard: Take us to yellow alert. Raise the shields, and prepare for...
anything...
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Four: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] In the coils of the Serpent []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
First Officer's Log: The Enterprise is at full yellow alert with shields
raised and all crew standing by for any possible
danger. Aside from that, all we can do is wait.
Our friend "Q" is nervously pacing the bridge, his
brow furrowed deeply, apparently concentrating his
powers upon trying to gain any information on our
current situation. Undoubtedly, he is more concerned
with his own welfare than that of the crew, but any
information he could provide us with would be welcome.
Q: Allright William, why did Picard order a yellow alert?
Riker: I'm sure the Captain has a good enough reason. He'll let us know
when he comes out.
Q: I haven't got time to wait around for him.
[He snaps his fingers and in a burst of light, Riker vanishes from
the command chair and reappears in the first officers seat. Picard
flashes into view where Riker was, spitting out shrimp curry in
his shock!]
Picard: Q!
Q: Yes, yes, I know...I spoiled your precious dinner. Now why did
you go to a yellow alert?
Picard: [Cleans himself off a bit, sits back in his chair, and then looks
Q directly in the eye]
Because...I just had a conversation with Nagilum.
[Several members of the Bridge crew shudder visibly]
Q: Well, since you two are obviously such good friends why don't you
simply ask him to let us out of here.
Picard: Well, I don't think he would mind, but he would rather keep us here
a while. It seems that we have something here that arouses his
curiosity.
Q: Well give it to him then, Picard. Then we can all get back to our
business.
Riker: What is it Nagilum finds so interesting, Captain?
Picard: Why, our guest. Q.
[Q turns around, somewhat pale]
Q: How dare he! He thinks he can study me as if I were some puny
insignificant life form? Like a human?
Picard: Yes. Apparently, he is extremely curious as to what you are.
He intends to test you like a laboratory rat to see how you
react.
Q: I will not stand for this! This "Nagilum" of yours is about to
discover what it means to mess with a member of the Q!
[Q snaps his fingers and the viewscreen is filled with a blinding light
and loud, terrible sounds of explosions and power!]
Picard: [diving to the floor] Maximum shields! Bring all sonic and light
filters to full power!
[The ship rocks with the sounds of explosions. Then, the filters come on
line and the Bridge dims back to normal lighting.
Then Riker leaps up and tackles Q, throwing him to the ground. The explosions
stop, but Riker is hurled at the wall, his body encrusted in ice.
Worf whips out his hand phaser, but it vanishes with a snap of Q's fingers.]
Picard: Sickbay! Medical emergency on the bridge!
Voice of Dr. Crusher: I'm on my way.
Q: [getting back to his feet]
Cancel that order, Beverly. I have the situation well in hand.
[He snaps and Riker is thawed and revived.]
Now, my dear Will, why did you attack?
Riker: Because you don't know your way out of here and neither do we. You
may very well have just destroyed our only chance of ever leaving
this nightmare hell!
Q: You have a point Riker. Too bad it is on your head. But the deed
is done. Nothing could have survived that attack. I can assure
you, this Nagilum is dead.
Picard: And how do you suggest we get back to our own space?
Q: Well Picard, if I were you, I think I'd have my extensively trained
crew get their butts behind their tremendously sophistocated
instruments, and try and figure that out themselves.
Picard: [Glaring at Q] Mr. Data, I would like a full scan of this area...
look for any kind of clues or hints you can find. Anything of use.
It appears that it will be up to us to find a way out of here.
Ensign Crusher, please assist him.
[Data and Wesley both nod and turn quickly to their instruments.]
Riker: Do you really think he destroyed Nagilum, sir?
Picard: If anyone had the kind of power necessary, it would be Q. But
there is a lot that we don't know about Nagilum. I find it rather
hard to speculate.
Riker: Agreed, Captain.
[Several hours pass as the crew busily scans and analyses as much as they
can. Unfortunately, thier instruments show next to nothing so finding clues
and information is difficult.]
Data: Commander, I am picking up something on my long range scanners.
Riker: Can you Identify it?
Data: Not at this range, Commander.
Riker: Mister Crusher, take us on a heading to intercept the object, warp 2.
Wesley: Aye sir.
[The ship lurches forward]
Riker: Captain Picard, we've picked up something on our sensors at extreme
sensor range. I've instructed Mister Crusher to take us closer.
Picard: Understood Commander. I shall join you on the Bridge shortly.
[Q bursts on to the bridge in a burst of light]
Q: What have you found, Mr. Data?
Data: Uncertain at this point, Q.
Riker: We're moving in to investigate.
Q: It is a small planetoid...a large asteroid actually. I'd say from
its construction that it is artificial. Not real.
Riker: You seem to be able to sense these things before we can read them.
How is it that you couldn't sense the presence of Nagilum?
Q: To be perfectly honest with you William, I don't believe there is
or was for that matter, a Nagilum. I think you must have scared
yourselves silly the last time you were trapped in here, and imagined
this big, scary boogeyman. But don't worry Riker, I can get us
out.
Riker: One of our crewmembers was killed by Nagilum. I don't call that
hallucination.
Q: Oh, pish tosh. Crew are expendable.
Riker: Obviously that's what you think. You didn't seem to think much
of the crewmembers we lost to the Borg when you introduced us to
them...nor the thousands of Federation personel lost when the Borg
went after the earth.
Q: Well, if you had been smart you would have been born to a species
that wasn't so mortal Riker.
Riker: Right. [Turns away from Q in disgust]
Data: We are within scanning range, Commander. The object appears to
be a small planetoid. Preliminary sensor scans would indicate that
it has a class "M" atmosphere. No vegetation or life forms detected
as of yet.
Riker: Thank you Data.
[The turbolift opens and Captain Picard enters the Bridge. Riker stands
to greet him and turn command back to him. He gives Picard a quick run
down of their current situation.]
Wesley: We've arrived at the planetoid, Captain.
Picard: Thank you Mister Crusher. Establish standard orbit about the
planetoid.
Wesley: Aye aye, sir.
Picard: Commander Riker, establish an away team to investigate this planetoid.
I suggest you arm yourselves, and take along Lieutenant Worf.
Riker: [Smiling] I had the same Idea, Captain. With your permission I
would also like to take along Lieutenant Commander Laforge
and Ensign Crusher.
Picard: Granted. Good luck, Number One.
Riker: [Entering the turbolift with Worf and Wesley] Thank you sir.
[Before the turbolift doors close, Q jumps to his feet.]
Q: Certainly you don't expect them to go and not me as well?
Picard: Whether or not you go is none of my business. You are not a member
of my crew, and regardless of whether you wanted to go or not,
I don't think that I could make you even if I wanted you to.
Q: Aah, you're beginning to learn respect for me, Jean Luc. I like
that.
Picard: Not so much respect as a desire to avoid adding any extra dangers
to this ship or its crew.
Q: Whatever. I will of course, lead the away team.
Riker: You may accompany us Q, but I lead.
Q: Humans. You're always so hung up on these power trips.
[Picard and Riker look at each other, roll their eyes, and then motion for
Q to get into the turbolift.]
Q: I'll let you take your transporter alone this time, Riker. I'll
see you on the planet. [He snaps, and with a flash of light, is
gone]
Picard: Keep an eye on him, Number One. If he starts being foolish, return
to the ship at once. We can't risk his unpredictability.
Riker: Aye sir. [The turbolift doors close as Riker, Worf, and Ensign
Crusher leave to meet Geordi to head to the planetoid's surface]
[To be continued...]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Five: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] Stones and Shadows []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
Captain's Log: Commander Riker, Lieutennant Comander LaForge, Lieutennant
Worf, and Ensign Crusher are preparing to beam down to
a small planetoid which we have discovered within the
void. Q has already traveled there by his own methods.
We are presently uncertain whether or not Nagilum
was destroyed as a result of Q's outburst. I fear that
if the entity has indeed been destroyed, we may be trapped
within the void for all time.
Riker: Energize
O'Brian: You got it, sir. [He activates the transporter and four figures
shimmer and vanish.]
[Down on the planet's surface, they materialize in a small depression in
the surface of the planetoid.]
Riker: Tricorder readings Mister Crusher?
Wesley: It is a class "M" planet sir, oxygen nitrogen atmosphere. No life
forms registering. I detect only the four of us and one other
humanoid life form which I assume to be Q.
Riker: How far away is Q?
Wesley: He is roughly 250 kilometers due east of us, sir.
Riker: Well, at least he's out of our hair for a few minutes. Let's get
to work. Geordi, can you see anything of interest?
Geordi: Yes sir. This planet is definitely artificial, although without
some serious investigating, my visor, or Q, it would be nearly
impossible to tell.
Riker: Is it of the same material as you saw on the replica of the
Yamato, when we were here last time?
Geordi: Not exactly sir, although the patterns of its molecular construction
are very similar. I would be willing to say it was constructed
by the same...er, entity.
Riker: [Grinning] Seems as though we have our hands full of "entities"
this time.
Geordi: [Smiles back] Yes sir.
[The Bridge of the Enterprise]
Picard: Counselor, have you been watching Q since we were enveloped by the
void.
Troi: Yes sir. In fact, I've been paying close attention to him. He
is having a very difficult time in dealing with this situation.
Picard: Is it to the point of Panic?
Troi: It was at first, and then he calmed down a bit. I believe that
if we do not find our way out of here soon, however, that stage
of panic may return, and to a greater degree.
Picard: Wonderful. Having a mischivious entity on board is bad enough,
but one in a state of panic? I confess that I have no desire to
experience that. Mister Data, have your scans come up with
anything more that we may be able to use?
Data: No sir. This planetoid is the only thing that even registers
on my equiptment. Even this void itself does not register.
Picard: Thank you, Data.
[Riker's voice is heard over the ship's communication system]
Riker's voice: Captain, this is Riker. We have finished making our
preliminary investigations. This planet is a fake, like
the "Yamato" we encountered last time we were here.
Picard: Interesting Number One, although not terribly surprising.
Speculate...do you think that Nagilum may still be alive?
Riker's voice: Difficult to say, sir. We didn't detect this planet until
after Q got carried away, but then again, we don't know
how big this place is. It also seems to warp distances
and courses, as we know from our last encounter.
Picard: Agreed. Keep me informed Number One. Picard out.
[Back on the planet's surface]
Wesley: Sir, my tricorder says that this planetoid is hollow.
Riker: Well! That is interesting. What's down there?
Wesley: I can't say for sure, sir, but I'd be willing to bet it would be
worth checking out. Perhaps there is machinery that keeps this
planetoids atmosphere going or something like that.
Riker: My thoughts exactly. Good work, Wes.
[Crusher smiles]
Riker: [Hitting his comm badge] Riker to Transporter Chief. Ensign Crusher
is sending you some coordinates for the interior of this planetoid.
Prepare to beam us there.
O'Brian's voice: Just let me know when you are ready, sir.
Riker: [Looks at Wes, who nods] Energize.
[The crew suddenly vanishes in a sparkle of light as the transporter engages,
sending them inside of the planet.]
[Q is sitting there, on a large stone when the away team arrives.]
Q: Welcome Commander Riker. I was wondering if you were planning to
join me or not.
Riker: Wes, Geordi, give the place a serious going over. [Looking at Q]
What have you found here?
Q: [Pointing arouond] Well, there's some rocks here, a few stones
over there, a boulder or two that way...
Worf: [Growls slightly]
Q: What's the matter wonder brain? Am I being too technical for you?
Riker: Knock it off Q. Do you mean to tell us that there is nothing down
here?
Q: Nothing but these fake rocks. There's a perfectly simple explanation
for it all. Obviously, this planet was cloaked somehow, and Nagilum
lived here. When I destroyed him, he obviously couldn't cloak the
planetoid any longer, and ta daa, there you have it.
Geordi: But Q, if you destroyed Nagilum then wouldn't the planet have been
destroyed as well?
[Q's face suddenly turns red with fury!]
Q: He is making a fool of me!
[He snaps his fingers and the away team is instantly back on the
bridge! Then the planetoid suddenly explodes with another snap
of Q's fingers!]
Picard: Number One, what happened?
Riker: It would seem that the labrat didn't care for his maze, sir.
[Q glares at Riker, and then faces the viewscreen]
Q: Nagilum! Come out and face me!
[Suddenly, the screen is filled with the Image of Nagilum, his unnatural
appearance sending waves of fear and nausea through the crew of the
Enterprise...]
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Six: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] A clash of Titans []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
Captain's Log, Stardate 44201.7:
The Away Team has returned, via Q, to the bridge as Q
destroyed the small planetoid. His fury alarms me, for
one with the power such as he has could be extremely
dangerous in this state. Our situation is further
complicated by the appearance of the entity known as
Nagilum on our viewscreen.
Q: Nagilum! Come out of your hiding place and face me, or are you
a coward?
Nagilum: This being is one possesed of great powers and according to your
machines, Captain Picard, great intelligence. Yet he allows
his arrogance to cloud his judgement as well as his ability to put
those powers to their best use. Interesting.
Picard: Nagilum, have you completed your studies of Q? My crew is
uncomfortable in this domain of yours and we wish to leave.
Nagilum: So I have observed, Captain Picard. Yet, there is still a great
amount of information about your species that I still have not
discovered. Observing the reactions of you and your crew in
this situation is proving to be a worthwhile study.
Picard: You told me that you were only interested in Q, Nagilum, and that
the rest of us would not be harmed.
Nagilum: But I have not harmed you, Captain Picard. Your ship holds all
of the nutrient compounds which your species needs to sustain
its existence. Therefore, there is no danger to any of you.
You will remain here so that I may study you further as I study
the one called Q.
Q: [Stepping forward] Obviously, you don't realize who I am, Nagilum.
I am a member of the Q continuum! I am Immortal! Omnipotent!!!
Nagilum: Indeed.
Q: You don't believe me. Very well, Nag. I shall show you the
true power of Q!
[Q snaps his fingers! Nagilum gently fades from the viewscreen to allow
the enterprise crew a view of what is happening outside. Bursts of light
begin to come together a distance away from the ship. They approach from
all directions and begin to form a great shpere.]
[Picard turns to Deanna and whispers to her]
Picard: What is Q's current mental and psychological status?
Troi: His mind is experiencing extremely high levels of stress, Captain.
He feels like his position as an "Entity" in the eyes of the
Enterprise crew is at stake. He feeds on the awe we all hold
for him, even though that awe is also mingled with hatred on the
parts of most of the crew. In short, he doesn't want to loose
face to another being. I think he is even beginning to fear for
his life.
Picard: And Nagilum?
Troi: I sense nothing from him.
Picard: No stress?
Troi: No, I mean nothing at all. There is a total lack of any feeling.
I cannot even sense his presence here. I am totally blind to
him.
Picard: And it would seem that Q is also blind to Nagilum.
[They look up to the screen again and see that the sphere of light has
formed itself into a planet. Within moments, oceans and continents can
be seen.]
Data: I am getting sensor readings on the new planet now, Captain.
It is approximately 1.3 times the Earth's diameter, with a complete
oxygen-nitrogen atmosphere. I am also detecting a multitude of
life forms. Representive forms include many plant species, mammals,
birds, fishes, Cnidarians, Poriferans, Mollusks, bacteria...
Picard: Thank you, Data.
[Q looks on, satisfied, and then sits down next to Riker]
Q: Now you can see, my dear Capitan. It is obvious which of us is
the more powerful. Which one of us is truly above all others, even
in this dimension. His "planet" was a small, lifeless, artificial
construct. Mine is a large, real, living world!
[Nagilum's image appears again in a corner of the viewscreen.
Nagilum: Interesting.
Q: [Jumping to his feet] Interesting??? Is that all you can say?
Interesting??? Why don't you admit it, you weak, insignificant
coward? I am by far the superior one here! I am the more powerful!
Nagilum: Why do you alter your appearance to that of the human form?
Q: [Obviously furious] I do what I wish! When I wish! Where I
wish! And how I wish!!!
Troi: [To Picard] Captain, he is at a level of stress and tension that
would cause most humanoids to have a nervous breakdown. We must
try to calm him.
Picard: [Standing up] Q! Please try to control yourself. I'm sure we can
resolve this situation far more quickly if we all remain in
control of ourselves.
Q: So! You do think he is more powerful than me! Control yourself
indeed! Well Captain, here's a little something to help correct
your lack of faith in me!
[He snaps his fingers and Picard is throw against a wall in a burst of
light. Q snaps again and vanishes from the Bridge.]
Riker: Doctor Crusher, medical emergency on the Bridge!
[Riker, Worf and Data all run over to the fallen Captain. Nagilum again
fades from the screen. Worf turns Picard's body over and finds that it
is stiff and unmoving. Beverly enters from the Turbolift and rushes to
him.]
Riker: Data, can you locate Q?
Data: [Sitting down at the Ops console] I believe so.
Crusher: I can't believe this!
Riker: What is it, Doctor?
Crusher: [Looking up at Riker] Every tissue in his body has been turned
to glass. And all of his bodily fluids as well.
Riker: Is there anything you can do?
Crusher: Not unless I become a medieval alchemist. If we don't get Q to
return him to normal, he may stay this way forever.
Data: Commander, I have located Q. He is on the surface of the planet
which he just created.
Riker: Can you tell what he is doing there?
Data: Sensor reading suggest that he is randomly destroying large
areas of terrain...mountains, forests, etc.
Riker: Sounds like he's throwing a temper tantrum.
Data: That would be a reasonable assumption.
Troi: Yes, I can feel his rage. It is very strong, even from this
distance.
Riker: Ensign, take us out of here, warp 8, any heading. I want to get
this ship as far out of his range as possible, especially if he
decides to start throwing rocks at us.
Wesley: Aye sir, course and speed set.
Riker: Engage.
[The ship bursts into high warp and streaks away into the inky depths of the
void]
Crusher: I'm going to move the Captain into sickbay, where I can monitor
him...if there is anything to monitor.
Riker: Agreed, Doctor. And something tells me that things aren't about
to start getting better any time soon...
[To be continued]
Note: Special thanks to Dhanapong "Mouse" Saengrussamee
(mouse@vaxb.acs.unt.edu) for info about Stardates in ST:TNG, and for
suggesting that I use them in the "Captain's Log". Thanks mouse! :)
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Seven: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] A Moment of Silence []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Copyright 1991 by Rory K. McManus (rory@triton.unm.edu) []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
First Officer's Log, StarDate 44202.3:
Captain Picard has been rendered helpless by Q who appears
to have turned the Captain to glass. Doctor Crusher is
unable to find a cure for him. It is highly likely that
only Q himself has the power to restore our Captain to
life. We have moved the ship out to maximum sensor range
from Q's new planet, where Q himself is currently located.
We are frustrated, for it seems, at this moment, that there
is little we can do to either save our Captain or to escape
from the void.
Crusher: I've got the Captain in sickbay now, being continuously monitored.
Unfortunately, there's really not much to monitor.
Riker: Nothing?
Crusher: To my medical equipment, he reads no differently than an oversized
paperweight. There's nothing I can do for him in this state.
Riker: Keep me informed. If anything changes with him, I want to know
about it right away. [Turns to the front of the Bridge]
Data, I want you to scan this void for anything that is even
remotely familiar from our Universe. Check for Radio waves,
radiation bands, light waves, anything whatsoever.
Data: Yes sir. [He pushes away the Ops console and walks over to one
of the science stations]
Riker: Geordi, I'd like you to head to an observation port and just look.
I realize that this is not a terribly scientific or intellectually
stimulating assignment but with your visor...
Geordi: No problem, Commander. Right now just looking and trying to find
a star or something sounds like just the type of job I need.
[Ensign Crusher appears to swoon slightly in his chair for a moment.]
Riker: Wesley, are you allright?
Wesley: I think so, sir. I just felt a little weak there, but only for
a second.
Riker: Why don't you take a quick break and run down to 10 Forward to
put something in your stomach. You'll feel better.
Wesley: I'll be fine, Commander. Really.
Riker: Wes [smiling], that's an order.
Wesley: Yes sir.
Crusher: [Watching her son exit the Bridge] He probably forgot to eat
breakfast again and in this kind of stressful situation, the
body can't afford not to eat. Honestly, I just don't understand
why young men and women his age skip breakfast so often.
Riker: [Grinning] Oh come now, Doctor. Don't tell me that you didn't
somehow miss a few morning meals when you were his age?
Crusher: [Blushing] Well, maybe a few...
Riker: Then I'd say that in lieu of his nutritional habits compared to
previous generations up to this point, he is exceptionally well
qualified to enter StarFleet Academy next month.
Crusher: Good grief! I'll have to hire a valet for him to see that he
eats right!
Riker: He'll do just fine, Bev.
Crusher: If we ever get out of this void, that is...
Riker: I intend to get this ship safely back to our dimension, even if
I have to go outside and push.
[Wesley enters "10 Forward", the ships main lounge and snack stop]
Guinan: Hello Wesley, what can I do for you?
Wesley: Hi Guinan. I guess I need to get something to eat. Commander
Riker's orders. [he grins]
Guinan: Hmmm...sounds like a fairly routine assignment. If you tell me
what sort of "equipment" you need for this mission, I can send
you on your way to carry out those orders.
Wesley: Well, since you're the ships leading expert on this sort of
assignment, I was hoping you could suggest something.
Guinan: [Looking him over] Hmm...for this type of mission I don't think
you anything too heavy. How about...a nice big Reuben sandwich
with fries and coleslaw?
Wesley: Add a blueberry shake to that order and you've got a deal.
[She gets his order together and sets it in front of him. Wesley hungrily
dives in.]
[Sitting on a table a couple of meters away, two crewmembers are discussing
the enterprise's situation]
Mandak: [A lieutenant] We're doomed. Here we are, stuck in some strange
dimension, in the middle of a fight between two entities, either
of which could destroy us all in an instant, and we have to face
them without a Captain to lead us.
[The other lieutenant nods, agreeing with Mandak. Mandak been aboard ship
for only about a month and a half. Wesley, who can't help but overhear,
tries to give them a reassuring word.]
Wesley: Sorry to interrupt, but I just wanted to let you guys know that
Commander Riker is a good leader. If anyone can get us out of
here, he can.
Mandak: [Turning to face Wes] Commander Riker is not the Captain, Ensign.
Just the first officer. There's a big difference between the
two, and I really don't think that Riker is anywhere near Picard's
class. Face it Ensign, we're gonners.
Wesley: What kind of talk is that? Commander Riker has led this ship
before, and he has always brought us through safely and successfully.
Mandak: Listen Kid, I know you really like him, and the two of you are
probably good friends, but that doesn't make him a leader. We're
done for here. Riker can't possibly do it.
Wesley: [Standing, getting a little upset] I don't think you have a very
good attitude toward this. We're supposed to be supporting our
Commanding Officer, no matter who he or she may be. Our leaders
need our support so they can confidently make the right decisions.
Mandak: [Also getting to his feet] And I don't think you should be talking
to a superior officer that way, Ensign. Now just sit back down
and shut up like a good little boy.
Wesley: [Enraged] I will not! Somebody has to support our Commander,
and even if you're too afraid to do it, I'm not!
Mandak: [Heading toward the door with the other Lieutenant] I just hope
you realize that this is insubordination, Mister. If the Captain
ever comes to, he's gonna be hearing about it.
Wesley: Good! Go ahead and tell him! Maybe he can teach you a few things
about having faith in his first officer!
[They leave, Wesley sits down, steaming]
Wesley: Boy, did I blow it this time.
Guinan: I wouldn't worry about it, Wesley.
Wesley: When word of this gets back to the Captain...
Guinan: He'll find out that you were defending the Commander of the
Enterprise and trying to keep morale up during a time of crisis.
Your faith in Commander Riker is what this crew needs to see so
that they can stand behind Riker and back him and be ready for
his commands when he needs them to be there. This isn't a one
person show, it is a team effort, and your example shows what
it means to be part of the team.
Wesley: [Finishing up the last of his meal] Do you really think so?
Guinan: [Smiling] Well, even if they do report this little incident to
the Captain, there's one witness who's on your side.
Wesley: Thanks Guinan.
[Riker's voice comes over the comm] Ensign Crusher to the Bridge.
Wesley: Whoops, gotta go. Thanks again!
Guinan: Anytime, Wes. [She watches him leave, picking up his tray as
10 Forward once again becomes a silent place...]
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Eight: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] The Face of Fear []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Copyright 1991 by Rory K. McManus []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
First Officer's Log, StarDate 44202.9:
For several hours we have been sitting here, at the edge
of sensor range from Q's planet. We have seen no sign of
Q or Nagilum since Q left the ship.
Riker: This waiting is driving me nuts.
Troi: I believe that most of the crew is feeling the same way Commander.
Riker: It's just such a feeling of helplessness, Deanna. Knowing that there
is nothing I can do to get us out of here. I just wish that something
would happen to change our...
[As if on Que, Q bursts onto the bridge with a flash of light. He stands for
a moment, his face filled with terror, and then he falls to the floor.]
Riker: Dr. Crusher, to the Bridge. Q is back and we may need your help.
[He walks over to the fallen Q and rolls him over, onto his back. Q is
conscious, but trembling like a frightened child. Meekly, he whispers,
"Help me"]
Riker: Q, what happened to you?
Q: [Shuddering] Awful...so horribly awful...
Riker: What? What was awful?
[Q shakes his head, trembles, and then passes out. Dr. Crusher arrives
on the Bridge and immediately begins to run medical scans on Q.]
Crusher: He is suffering from some kind of Trauma. We'd better get
him to sickbay.
Riker: [Looking at viewscreen] What could Nagilum have done to him
out there?
[A short time later, in the ready room]
Riker: It seems as though Nagilum holds all the cards here, though
I can't imagine anything being able to do this to Q. Now,
our main problem...should we try to help him, or should we
try to deal with Nagilum instead?
Worf: I say we seek out Nagilum. He has proven himself to be the
more formidable of the two.
Troi: But what about Q's planet? Nagilum doesn't seem able to do
anything on that scale. I can't believe that Nagilum is more
powerful than Q.
Worf: Nagilum has won. That is proof enough. A human may be able to
create a great many things with his hands, but against the claws
of a tiger, those hands will still prove to be lacking.
Geordi: I don't know. It seems as though Nagilum is playing on Q's fears.
Fears of losing, fears of helplessness, to keep Q from getting
on the right track.
Crusher: Let's not forget about the Captain. As far as we know, only Q
is capable of restoring him. Perhaps if we were to help Q, he
may return the captain to us.
Riker: And risk having more of us turned to glass if Q throws another
tantrum? I'm not so sure that's a good Idea. Mr. Data, we
haven't heard from you yet. Do you have any opinions?
Data: I find it difficult to decide in this situation, Commander.
Essentially, we are trying to "choose" which of these
entities will be able, and willing to free us from the void.
I have little fact to go on, mostly speculation.
Riker: And what is your speculation on this?
Data: I must conclude that we would be wisest in attempting to deal
with Nagilum.
Troi: But Data, why?
Data: Q has shown himself to be a creature of mood. His behavior
reflects the mood he is in. Also, this behavior tends to be
mostly childlike in nature and rather unstable, as his treatment
of Captain Picard would indicate.
Riker: Go on.
Data: Nagilum, however, appears to be motivated by curiosity. In our
previous encounter with him, were not his actions similar to
those of a scientist, experimenting with something new and
unfamiliar, with the goal of gaining information about it?
Riker: Your point is well taken, Mr. Data. I think we should try to
contact Nagilum, get him to talk to us. If that fails, then
we may have to turn to Q. Questions? Good. Then let's get
back to the Bridge.
[They enter the Bridge and assume their stations.]
Riker: Mister Worf, try to hail Nagilum, all channels, all frequiencies.
I want to talk to him.
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Nine: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] Ghosts and Goblins []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Copyright 1991 by Rory K. McManus []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
First Officer's Log, Stardate 44203.0:
After somehow being humbled by Nagilum, Q has reappeared
onboard the enterprise. We are now attempting to make
contact with Nagilum, in the hopes of being freed.
Worf: Hailing on all wavelengths...no response.
Riker: I wonder if he really can't hear us, or if he's just playing
games with us.
Data: Actually, it would be more appropriate to say he is conducting
experiments with us.
Riker: I don't care what you call it, I still don't like it. Worf,
keep trying. I'm going to talk to Q. Deanna?
[He enters the turbolift. Deanna joins him.]
Troi: Will, you're under a lot of pressuer. Perhaps you should take
a couple of hours and relax, get your strength back.
Riker: Q is on board, the Captain is glass, and Nagilum is still out
there, somewhere, doing who knows what. I can't afford to take
any time off.
[They leave the turbolift and begin walking down a hall]
Troi: I can sense your frustration, Will. Please be careful.
Riker: Don't worry Deanna, I will be. But, [smiles] give me a whack
over the head if I start getting out of line.
Deanna: [smiling back] You'll do fine.
[They enter sickbay. Crusher is standing over Q's bed.]
Riker: What's his condition, Doctor?
Crusher: Well, there's nothing physically wrong with him. That is, his
human form is ok. His problem is psychological. He does nothing
but sit there, babbling.
Riker: Do you sense anything from him, councilor?
Troi: Barely, Commander. It would seem that he has drawn deep within
himself...in sheer terror.
Riker: What could Nagilum have done to him?
A being with Q's power, terrified like this?
[Deanna shudders slightly]
Riker: We've got to reach him. Q? Can you hear me? Q?
Troi: I sense no change Will. I don't think he can hear you.
Q: [Grogily] Incorrect, Deanna, I am here.
Riker: Q, what hapened? What did Nagilum do to you?
Q: Nightmares...my worst fears...all of them, made real, brought
before my eyes...ghastly...
Crusher: Q, did Nagilum hurt you physically.
Q: Yes, in...or did he...I'm...not sure...
Troi: Commander, Q is still deep within his own mind. I'm amazed that
he can even communicate with us.
Riker: Q, we need your help. You have to snap out of it.
Q: No! Horror, pain...
Troi: He is completely withdrawn, Commander.
Riker: Councilor, I need to reach him. Do what you can.
Troi: I'll do my best.
[Riker nods, then heads out toward the turbolift]
Crusher: If we can't bring him back from this state...
Troi: ...then we may never get our Captain back...
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Ten: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] A Thirst for Destruction []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Copyright 1991 by Rory K. McManus []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
Personal Log, Commander William T. Riker, Stardate 44203.3:
I have just witnessed what is very likely one of the
most frightening things I have ever experienced in my
entire career with StarFleet. The entity known as Q,
perhaps the single most powerful being I have ever
encountered, has been reduced to a babbling, frightened,
almost childlike wreck. I am utterly confused and
shocked over this, for I once held the power of the
Q in my hands. I know what it is like. I can't
imagine anything doing this to Q, and yet, it has
happened. It is something I shall lose sleep over
for many nights to come.
Riker: [Arriving on the Bridge] Gentlemen, have you come up with any
Ideas for me yet?
Geordi: Not anything you'd care to hear, sir. We've looked at just about
everything we could think of and couldn't find anything with a
decent probability of working. Our best Idea only gives us a
fifty percent chance of survival, and even then we don't know
if it could get us out of the void.
Riker: Let's hear it.
Geordi: Well, according to our experience so far, everything on this
ship still works here in the void. Warp drive, impulse power,
even weapons systems are fully functional.
Riker: Go on.
Geordi: Well sir, I believe that if our warp engines are functioning with
no impairment, they should also be capable of doing everything
that they would do in regular space...both the good and the bad
things they're capable of.
Riker: Something tells me that your Idea is based on one of these "bad"
sides of the engines.
Geordi: Yes sir. My Idea is to set up an imbalance in the warp engines,
creating a wormhole effect.
Data: We would have no way of guaranteeing we could survive the journey
through the wormhole, nor that it would lead us back to familiar
space. It could simply lead us to another location here in the
void.
Riker: That sounds like a pretty slim chance, Gentlemen.
Data: Indeed sir.
Riker: But as far as I'm concerned, it is better than waiting around,
hoping that one of our two friends will be merciful and let us
go. Geordi, I want you and Data to begin working on the equations
for the wormhole. Try and see if there is any way to create one
that is relatively safe, or somewhat stable at least.
[Dr. Drusher's voice comes over the comm. "Commander Riker, Q has just
come out of his catatonic state.]
Riker: I'm on my way, Doctor.
[There is a flash, and then Q is standing on the Bridge, along with Deanna
and Beverly]
Q: No need, Commander Riker. I can manage just fine, thank you.
Riker: Q! What happened to you?
Q: I've been humilliated. Embarassed. Played for the fool! And
don't try and show me any of your weak, human compassion. I don't
need it. My only need is to rid this universe of this Nagilum
once and for all.
Riker: But what did he do to you?
Q: Do you really want to know? Would it please you to gloat over
my misfortunes and mistakes? Fine. I'll tell you what he did.
He tricked me. He conjured up images of my worst fears and
nightmares, flashed them through my mind, and made them so real
that for a time, I believed them. I was a fool for not recognising
them for what they were...illusions, phantasms.
Riker: And I didn't think you had any fears.
Q: Very few, William. But go ahead, laugh. Laugh at "Q, the buffoon".
But when I'm finished with Nagilum, no one will be laughing anymore.
I shall return shortly. [He raises his fingers to snap]
Geordi: Wait! What about Captain Picard?
Q: What about him? [He snaps and vanishes.]
Data: Commander Riker, I am picking up extremely high energy readings
coming from Q's planet.
Riker: Even at this range? Q must be trying to find Nagilum again.
Data: I am now reading strong energy patterns throughout the void.
Geordi: He must be blasting around again, hoping to hit Nagilum from
a distance.
Data: I do not think so, Geordi. These readings are in much different
patterns than those coming from the planet.
Geordi: Nagilum's response then.
Data: The void energies are now beginning to migrate. The pattern of
movement suggests that they are converging on the planet.
Riker: Can you tell which is stronger? Those from the planet, or those
in the void?
Data: I am unable to determine which is the greater. Both sets of
readings are far beyond our the range of our instrumentation.
Riker: Sounds like they're gearing up for the final showdown.
Commander LaForge, how long until you can create your wormhole?
Geordi: We could do it now if you wanted. The problem is, we would have
no way of attempting to stabilize it.
Riker: I don't want to be here when those two start to fight. Commander
LaForge, create the wormhole.
Geordi: You got it.
Data: Sir, without further calculations to insure a wormhole of stability
sufficint to allow safe passage through, the wormhole could very
well collapse while the Enterprise is yet within it.
Riker: Understood Mr. Data, but I'd rather take my chances in the wormhole
than to be in void when those two start throwing punches.
Data: Throwing punches, sir?
Geordi: He means when they start fighting, Data. Well Commander, we're
ready when you are. Just get me a good, high warp velocity,
and we'll get you a wormhole.
Riker: [Sitting up full in his chair] Mister Crusher. Take us on a
heading away from the planet, warp factor eight.
Wesley: Course and speed laid in, sir.
Riker: Engage...
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Eleven: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] A Run for the Border []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Copyright 1991 by Rory K. McManus []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
First Officer's Log, StarDate 44203.5:
The Enterprise is moving through the void at a speed of
warp eight. We need this kind of speed for Commander
LaForge to create a wormhole effect by causing the engines
to become unbalanced. It is a risky hope at best, for we
do not know if we can successfully create one here in the
void, nor if it will lead us out of the void, nor even
if we could even survive the journey through the wormhole.
With Q and Nagilum preparing to fight however, this could
prove to be our only hope.
Data: Sir, sensors show that the void energies have coalesced into a single
spherical unit of energy.
Riker: Mr. Data, continue to monitor the planet while we are still in sensor
range. Geordi, how's it coming?
Geordi: Looking good, commander. I'm programming in the fuel ratios now.
We should be able to create a wormhole within a few minutes.
Data: Commander, the void energy unit just flared, temporarily blocking
all scanning of Q. It would apear that Nagilum has just obliterated
the planet.
Riker: As long as they stay occupied with each other we should have enough
time to get out of here.
Data: Perhaps not, sir. A shockwave was created when Nagilum flared in
power. It will reach us in approximately 31 seconds.
Riker: Geordi, how soon?
Geordi: About another two or three minutes, sir.
Riker: Mister Worf, engage shields, full power.
Data: We will be unable to create the wormhole effect with shields in
place.
Riker: I know. How long until that shockwave hits?
[The ship suddenly lurches about]
Riker: Well, I guess that answers my question. Data, are there any more
of those things coming?
Data: Negative, Commander.
Riker: Mr. Worf, lower the shields. Geordi, I need speed...
Geordi: I'll do my best.
Data: Sensors no longer detect presence of either Q or Nagilum. We have
gone out of range.
Riker: Keep scanning. I want to know if they start sneaking up on us.
Geordi: Ok sir, she's ready.
Riker: Create the wormhole.
[Geordi enters some commands on his console. Suddenly, the enterprise lurches
forward. A reddish orange glow appears on the viewscreen. The ship then
lurches backward and the screen goes dark.]
Geordi: Damn!
Riker: I take that to mean it didn't work?
Geordi: Negative, Commander. At best all we did was to create a worm dent.
It didn't go anywhere and it only lasted a second. To get this
to work I may have to dangerously imbalance the engines.
Riker: Meaning?
Geordi: Meaning that we could end up destroying the ship if it goes too
far out of control.
Data: Sir, I am picking up a large concentration of energy at extreme
sensor range.
Riker: Another shockwave?
Data: No sir. It is one of the entities.
Riker: Q or Nagilum. Can you tell which one it is?
Data: Negative. I am unable to determine which...sir, a second energy
form has now appeared on ship's sensors.
Riker: How long until they reach us?
Data: Four minutes, eleven seconds.
Wesley: They must have seen our attemp to create a wormhole. They could
be trying to stop us.
Riker: Geordi! We need that wormhole.
Geordi: I'm going as fast as I can, Commander. If we're not careful here
the Enterprise is gonna go up like a Roman Candle.
Riker: How long?
Geordi: A good five minutes, Sir.
Riker: I need it sooner.
Geordi: Impossible Commander.
Data: Sir, the rear energy form is flaring. The forward one appears to
have been hit. Its course and speed have been altered. It is flaring
now in return.
Wesley: They're fighting.
Data: Both entities are discharging great amounts of energy at one another.
Their speed and trajectories are fluctuating as they continue
attacking one another.
Riker: If they keep this up, it just may buy us some time. Do you detect
any shockwaves from them this time, Data?
Data: Yes sir, but they are of a lesser strength than the initial one.
We should be able to ride them out without requiring the shields.
Riker: Good. Geordi, how much longer?
Geordi: About another three minutes.
Riker: And when will our "friends" intercept us?
Data: If they continue at present speed, two minutes, thirty seven seconds.
Riker: Geordi, I need that wormhole in two minutes.
Geordi: Can't do it, commander
Data: An attack from the rear entity has caused the being in the fore
to be thrown off course. Rear entity is pursuing first entity,
not us.
Riker: Could one of them be trying to help us?
Geordi: Another minute and we're out of here.
Data: The first entity is counter-attacking. It is now reestablishing
pursuit. Estimate interception in forty seven seconds.
Riker: Geordi...
Geordi: Almost...almost...
Data: The entity will be upon us in twenty four seconds. Second energy
form is too far behind to be likely to stop it this time.
Geordi: ...almost...
Data: Interception will occur in ten seconds.
Geordi: Ok! We're ready!
Riker: Now!!!
[The ship lurches violently forward as the screen is filled with a reddish
orange glow...]
[To be continued]
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] [] []
[] StarTrek: The Next Generation [] Chapter Twelve: []
[] The Serpent in the Silence [] []
[] [] For I have heard the Silence, []
[] Written by: Rory K. McManus [] and it is a Sound that even []
[] rory@triton.unm.edu [] the Darkness must Fear... []
[] [] []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Copyright 1991 by Rory K. McManus []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
First Officer's Log, Stardate 44203.8:
We have entered the wormhole...
[All is dark]
Voice of Data: Commander Riker, can you hear me?
[Riker's eyes open to see Data standing over him. He takes a moment to
try and focus everything. Then he gets to his feet, noticing that everyone
except Data and Worf are still out, on the floor.]
Riker: Data, what happened? Where are we?
Data: We have successfully traversed the wormhole, Commander. The Enterprise
is safe.
[Riker then notices the viewscreen. The stars are once again visible.
He begins to smile.]
Data: When we entered the wormhole, the G forces which we subsequently
encountered proved to be too much for most of the crew, which is
why Lieutenant Worf and myself are the only ones, excluding yourself,
who are currently conscious aboard the bridge.
Riker: How long were we in the wormhole?
Data: Approximately twenty minutes, sir. Worf and I were able to avoid
or destroy the few small meteorites which were in the wormhole.
Riker: Good job, gentlemen. How long was I out, by the way?
Data: Forty three minutes, twenty seconds.
Riker: Mister Worf, inform me when our crew begins to wake up and report
in.
[Geordi begins groaning as he starts to wake up]
Riker: [Looking out at the stars] Where are we, anyhow?
Data: We are at a position approximately 16 days from where we were captured
by the void, based on a speed of warp 7. There has been no sign
of the void, Nagilum, or Q since we made our escape.
Riker: Excellent. Mr. Worf, contact StarFleet Headquarters. Inform them
of our situation. Tell them we'll follow up with a full report
as soon as we have enough of our crew awake.
[Riker enters the ready room]
Picard: Well done, Number One.
Riker: Thank you sir, I...Captain??? Captain! But...
[Picard anticipates the question and points behind his first officer. Riker
turns around to see...]
Riker: Q!
Q: But of course, of course!
Picard: Apparently, he followed the Enterprise through the wormhole. He
was just explaining to me how he brilliantly concieved the Idea
as he was destroying Nagilum.
Riker: I'm obviously going to have to retell the story, Captain. It didn't
work out exactly the way Q would lead you to believe it did.
Picard: Of course not, Commander. But until you woke up, his was the only
story to hear.
Q: William, you don't really think that Nagilum did anything to me,
do you? Surely you realize that I had the power to annihilate him
in an instant, and free us from the void. I simply chose not to,
in order to test your skills and courage. I also wanted to throw
Nagilum off, make him think I was weaker than I really am.
Riker: Of course.
Q: You don't believe me now, Commander Riker, but I'll prove it to
you soon enough...when I bring Nagilum's head back on a platter.
Riker: I'm from Missouri, show me.
Picard: I thought you were from Alaska, Number One.
Q: Silence! You really think the joke's on me, eh Riker? Very well,
laugh if you must. I'll destroy him, I can assure you. But for
right now, I must leave. I would advise you not to gloat over this,
however...after all, I didn't have to restore your Captain...
[He laughs and then snaps, vanishing in a burst of light.]
Riker: Even after this, he is still so arrogant...
Picard: Sometimes, those who show themselves to be the most arrogant also
prove themselves to be the biggest fools. They refuse to learn
from their mistakes. It almost always catches up to them.
Riker: Well, if it hadn't been for Geordi getting us out of the void with
that wormhole, and Q deciding to tag along, he might have learned
it sooner than he'd care to believe. I just wonder if we truly
escaped from Nagilum, or if he let us go, like last time.
Picard: Nagilum is so different from us, so incomprehensible, that we may
never really know, or even begin to understand his motives. But
tell me, Number One, how does the real story go?
Riker: [Smiling] Sit back, Sir. You're going to enjoy this.
[Exterior view of the Enterprise, jumping away into Warp]
The End
--
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
[] Rory K. McManus [] University of New Mexico [] Gravity: Not just an idea, []
[] Asian Studies [] rory@triton.cirt.unm.edu [] IT'S THE LAW! []
[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
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